Rab is a stunning Kvarner island with the Velebit mountains as its backdrop. It offers striking contrasts, from the bare rocks in the east to the lush greenery of the west. A popular destination, Rab offers everything from hidden coves to a lively town center. There are plenty of activities for you to enjoy, such as cycling, hiking and water sports. The island is known to most tourists for the sandy Paradise Beach in Lopar. Read our short guide to find out more about what you can experience on Rab.
How to get there
There are two ferries to the island. The first one runs four times a day from the island of Krk (Valbiska) to Lopar on the northern part of the island, and the trip takes about 80 minutes. This option offers beautiful views as you cruise past the islands of Krk, Plavnik, Prvić, and Sv. Grgur during the crossing. The ferry is operated (like most others in Croatia) by Jadrolinija. A more frequent option is the ferry that runs every 30 to 45 minutes during the season from Stinica to Mišnjak on the southern tip of the island. This ferry takes about 15 minutes and is operated by Rapska plovidba.
What to see
The island’s highlight is undoubtedly the town of Rab, with its old town center, four bell towers and magnificent cathedral. The town’s stone streets lead you past the monastery of St Andrew and the town loggia to the large and small squares and Komrčar Park.
At the end of July, the island hosts the medieval festival Rapska fjera, which showcases what life was like on Rab in the past and attracts thousands of visitors every year. On the last day, there are also knight games.
In summer, you can visit one of fish food festivals in Kampor and Supetarska Draga, or the Rab Jazz Festival which begins at the end of August. You should also try the traditional dessert that Rab is known for: Rab cake, made with almonds and maraschino and dating back to the 12th century. We would recommend buying it at Kuća Rapske Torte in the old town of Rab.
Sports enthusiasts can go cycling from the town of Rab towards Barbat, through the Kalifront nature reserve in the west, or climb the Kamenjak hill on foot or by bike. At a height of 408 metres above sea level, it is the highest peak on the island, offering you amazing views on all sides. There is a restaurant at the summit in the summer.
The wooded western part of Suha Punta is also exceptionally beautiful, with numerous beaches tucked away in secluded coves.
Where to eat
- Leut restaurant: Excellent seafood in Barbat. Specialties: gregada and homemade gnocchi with cuttlefish. They have their own marina, so you can arrive by boat.
- Konoba Šanpjer: A popular seaside tavern with fresh fish and other seafood delicacies.
- Konoba Rab: Rustic tavern with traditional Mediterranean cuisine.
- Restaurant & Caffe Velum: Elegant ambience, fresh fish, and pizza.
- Perla restaurant: Coastal restaurant with a view of the old town center. They offer fish and meat specialties.
- Feral restaurant: A family-run tavern near the ferry in Lopar – try the octopus or a local fish dish.
- Santa Maria restaurant: Set in an old building above the harbor, with an international menu offering a good selection of seafood dishes.
- Labirint restaurant: home cooking with a simple Mediterranean philosophy.
- Cafe&Food Buža: fast food in the old part of Rab. Excellent burgers which you can take away.
- Burger Point: Excellent burgers, tortillas, fries, beer, and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Conte Nero: A popular café with a wide selection of cakes, ice cream, wines, and cocktails.
- Wine Bar Gagliardo: A charming wine bar in the old part of Rab, offering excellent Croatian wines and snacks.
Where to stay
The island of Rab offers a variety of villas, ranging from smaller options for 4 people to larger ones for up to 14. You can choose between cosy, modern accommodation or rustic, charming accommodation — the choice is yours. Some villas are situated in peaceful, green surroundings just a stone’s throw from the beach, while others are close to an urban area with a historical touch. Most villas have an outdoor swimming pool and a neat terrace, making them the perfect place to enjoy your holiday with family or friends.
Where to swim
- Paradise beach: 1.5 km of sandy beach near the San Marino campsite. The beach has a children’s playground with slides, a restaurant, volleyball courts, and a section, where you can enjoy the beach with your dog. Parasols are available for hire.
- Veli Mel Beach: 300 m of sandy beach near the village of Kampor, approx. 5 km from the town of Rab. You can go by car or bicycle. There is a restaurant and a bar on the beach.
- Banova Vila Beach: a small pebble beach on the western side of the old town of Rab, below the town walls. There is also a bar on the beach.
- Kandarola nudist beach: one of the oldest nudist beaches in the world, known since the visit of King Edward VIII in 1936. It is located on the Frkanj peninsula, 5 km west of the town.
- Beaches Ciganka and Sahara: discover two secluded nudist beaches near Lopar in the north of the island. Beautiful sandy beaches, each in its own bay with low vegetation and a view of the island of St. Grgur. Make sure you bring a parasol.
- Pudarica Beach: a lively sandy beach where there is always something going on. Enjoy a drink at the nearby beach bar nearby, where music plays all day long.
These highlights summary should give you a good insight into what you will experience if you choose to spend your vacation on the island of Rab. But don’t just take our word for it – book your accommodation and find out for yourself.
